Get To Know Our 2025 Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award Winner Eva Reti

Whitby resident, Eva Reti has been selected as the 2025 Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award winner. Congratulations, Eva!

Get to know Eva better and understand what motivates her to make a difference in the community.

Q. What motivates you to continue to give back to the community?
A. I’ve always believed that wherever you are and whatever you do, you should leave it a little bit better. That belief has guided me throughout my life. Volunteering gives me a sense of purpose and joy - it’s a meaningful way to support my community, my neighbours, and my friends.

Q. What are some of the organizations you volunteer with in Whitby?
A. Over the years, I’ve been involved with several organizations in Whitby, including Meals on Wheels, the Whitby Public Library Board, and most recently, the quilting group at the Whitby 55+ Recreation Centre. Through my work with the Durham Victorian Order of Nurses and Hospice Whitby, I have supported the development of a hospice facility in Whitby.

Additionally, I’ve been involved as a board member with the Community Development Council of Durham, a literacy tutor with the Literacy Network of Durham Region and the Sunday Bingo coordinator with the Animal Guardian Society. Through Knitted Knockers, I’ve knit over 600 breast prostheses for women who’ve had breast cancer and undergone a mastectomy or lumpectomy. I’ve also contributed to the fundraising committees for the Oshawa Jazz and Blues Festival and the Durham YWCA Women of Distinction Award Gala.

Q. What was your first reaction when you heard you were the 2025 Mayor’s Senior Volunteer Award winner?
A. I was honoured to be included in such a great group of nominees. I was in awe of all the good work people are doing in the community. It’s very humbling to be recognized for something that brings me so much joy. I’ve never volunteered for the recognition but knowing that my contributions are appreciated by the community means a great deal.

Q. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about volunteering?
A. Volunteer because you care - about your community, your neighbours, your friends. Find something that fits your lifestyle and brings you joy. When you do something you love, volunteering becomes more like a hobby than a task. You’ll meet like-minded people, and your positive energy will naturally draw others in. It’s a rewarding experience that I highly recommend.

More Information:

For more information about the Whitby’s 55+ Centre, visit whitby.ca/55Plus